Akans learned Jenni Caverson also was interested in bringing a winter festival back to Gaylord, so the two got together and moved the project forward.

The Alpenfrost committee, including Akans and Caverson, the vice president, join a host of volunteers and sponsors who have pitched in to make this year’s festival successful.

“Special accolades to (Otsego County administrator) John Burt and the county for putting everything together,” Akans said.

The event will begin with the Frosty 5K registration and race. The popular Polar Plunge parade featuring the Wertz Warriors and bone-chilling dip in the pool benefiting Michigan Special Olympics will follow (for schedule, see accompanying story).

There will be ice skating all day long in front of the county building, a soup cook-off and horse-drawn carriage rides courtesy of Cook Family Farm featuring narrated tours of historical Gaylord.

New events this year include the Winter Wonder Ball, Snow Dance, Snow Boot Two-Step and other games for kids sponsored by Guardian Gals.

Creative bakers can battle it out in the Cupcake Wars, there will be ice carving by Steve Emerson and Christmas decorations can finally be “recycled” in the Tree and Wreath Toss.

Akans believes Alpenfrost 2013 will be even bigger and better than last year.

“This year, we have a warming tent that will be a big draw,” Akans said.

Alpenfrost visitors can take the chill off in a large heated tent in front of the Pavilion on Court that will be sectioned off for beer, snacks, live entertainment and family activities.

The official Alpenfrost pin is the “ticket” to the day. Many downtown merchants will offer special events, deals and discounts to customers wearing pins.

The colorful commemorative pin is available for $2 at several downtown locations (see accompanying story).

The party continues into the evening at the second annual Michigan Craft Beer and Wine Festival, taking place from 6 to 10 p.m. at Treetops Resort, also benefiting Special Olympics.

For more information, visit www.GaylordAlpenfrost.com or call 731-7378.